Terrebonne waterworks board appoints new manager

Kris JohnsonStaff Writer

Thursday

Jul 19, 2012 at 7:50 AM

Terrebonne has a new general manager for its drinking-water system.

Terrebonne has a new general manager for its drinking-water system.Terrebonne Consolidated Waterworks District 1's board has appointed Mike Sobert after more than a year of waiting to fill the position permanently. Sobert, who started Monday, said he is a team player who will work with everyone to ensure the district continues to run successfully.“I'll do whatever it takes,” Sobert said. “I'm the type of leader that likes a relaxed working environment where I can make jokes and make sure everyone is comfortable. But trust me, anyone who works with me or for me will know I'm in charge.” The previous general manager of the parish's drinking-water system and a former parish manager, Barry Blackwell, died May 17, 2011, of a heart attack. Tom Wilson, head engineer at the Waterworks District, served as interim manager for the last nine months. He will return to his previous position. Sobert owned Buquet Ice Co. from 1980 until about three months ago. Sobert supplied ice to local stores and fishermen. He said the work was difficult, especially after the 2010 BP oil spill. “My number of merchandisers declined drastically,” Sobert said. “I asked my son if he wanted to take over the business, and he said no because he saw that I worked too hard.” Sobert said one thing he's looking forward to the most in his new position is less physical labor. “My son is right. The ice business was hard work,” Sobert said. “And I'm 62 years old, so now I can slow down a little, although I know this will be tough work, too.”Al Badeaux, vice chairman of the water board, said he's confident in his and the rest of the members' decision to appoint Sobert. “He was the most qualified of the 43 applicants we had, and I think he'll bring some stability to that position with his business background, running his own business for many years,” Badeaux said. Parish President Michel Claudet agrees and said his administration will help in any way it can.“Mr. Sobert is beginning a new challenge, and we will provide all possible cooperation and assistance to facilitate his betterment of the waterworks system for the good of all of Terrebonne Parish,” Claudet said. “We congratulate him and wish him the best in his new position.”

Staff Writer Kris Johnson can be reached at 857-2209 or kris.johnson@houmatoday.com. Follow her on Twitter @kjoTPgov.

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